Federal investigation underway after JCC locations across the US, including Indianapolis, are threatened

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INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – The Jewish Community Center in Indianapolis had reopened after they received a bomb threat this morning.

Someone called in a bomb threat around 10:20 a.m. on Monday morning, and everyone evacuated the premises.

After investigating the scene, police say no bomb was found, and the threat was a hoax. Local law enforcement determined it was safe for the JCC to resume normal operations.

According to a release sent out by the JCC, the threat made this morning is one in a series of bomb threats received by JCCs across the country. All bomb threats have proven to be hoaxes, and all JCCs have quickly returned to regular operations.

“While we are relieved that all such threats have proven to be hoaxes and that not a single person was harmed, we are concerned about the anti-Semitism behind these threats, and the repetition of threats intended to interfere with day-to-day life,” said Ira Jaffee, CEO.

The JCC Association of North America said there were at least 21 incidents of bomb threats called into JCC's and Jewish day schools Monday. This was the fifth wave of calls and brings the total number of called in bomb threats since the start of the year to 90.

"The JCRC condemns the wave of anti-Semitic bomb threats that is terrorizing Jewish communities across the country. We maintain strong relationships with local law enforcement and elected officials, who share our commitment to taking these incidents very seriously and keeping our children and our community safe. We will not let threats and intimidation deter us from accessing and enjoying our institutions," Lindsey Mintz, the executive director of the Indianapolis Jewish Community Relations Council, said in a statement.

According to a spokesperson with the FBI, they are aware of the threat and monitoring it and communicating with police.

The FBI office in Indianapolis issued the following statement:

"The FBI and the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division are investigating possible civil rights violations in connection with threats to Jewish Community Centers across the country. The FBI will collect all available facts and evidence, and will ensure this matter is investigated in a fair, thorough, and impartial manner. As this is matter is ongoing, we are not able to comment further at this time."

Mayor Joe Hogsett issued the following statement:

“I am appalled to hear of this morning’s threat against the Jewish Community Center, a place that provides invaluable resources and support for our city’s children, families, and seniors. While I am thankful that no one was injured, I stand with our Jewish brothers and sisters to disavow and condemn these threats of violence. Like so many in our community, I am dismayed by the acts of anti-Semitism we are seeing across the county and know that we must join together, as one people, to reject bigotry and prejudice. Hate will not be tolerated in Indianapolis and today, I ask that people of all faiths and backgrounds work together in affirming our city’s commitment to being a welcoming, safe place for all.”